Cellulitis on the hip: what to know

The hip area may become red, warm, swollen and tender. The affected patch can expand, and the skin may feel tight or painful. A small cut, insect bite, wound, injection site or cracked skin can provide an entry point for bacteria. Athlete's Foot can also create breaks in skin around the feet that allow infection to spread upward. A clinician usually assesses the skin and your general health; testing is not always needed.

Arrange same-day medical advice if you suspect cellulitis, especially when redness is spreading. Take any prescribed antibiotic exactly as directed and complete the course unless the prescriber changes it. Keep the area clean, avoid squeezing or puncturing it, and mark the edge of redness with a pen so change is easier to notice. Rest and drink fluids. Do not rely on leftover antibiotics or creams.

Seek emergency help for confusion, faintness, severe weakness, trouble breathing, rapidly worsening pain, blistering, or redness spreading quickly. Fever with shaking chills or feeling suddenly very unwell can signal a serious infection, including Sepsis. People with Type 2 Diabetes or reduced immunity should seek advice promptly because complications may develop more easily.

Ask what features support cellulitis, how soon improvement should begin after treatment, whether a wound or fungal infection needs care, and which changes mean you should return urgently.